Guide to MMA Glove Sizes

Guide to MMA Glove Sizes - Revgear Europe

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) gloves are essential gear for fighters, offering protection and support during training and competition. Selecting the right glove size and weight is crucial to ensure comfort, safety, and optimal performance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into various aspects of MMA glove sizes, weights, differences between competition and sparring gloves, the importance of hand wraps, and how to properly care for your MMA gloves.

 

Choosing the Right MMA Glove Size and Weight

MMA gloves come in various sizes and weights, designed to cater to different training needs and competition requirements.
When selecting the appropriate glove size and weight, consider the following factors:

  1. Hand Circumference: Measure the circumference of your dominant hand just below the knuckles.
    Use this measurement to determine your glove size.
    Most manufacturers provide sizing charts to help you make an accurate choice.

  2. Intended Use: Different glove weights are suitable for different training purposes.
    Heavier gloves (14 oz to 16 oz) are generally used for sparring and developing strength, while lighter gloves (8 oz to 12 oz) are favored for pad work, bag training, and faster striking.

  3. Competition Rules: Competitive MMA fights & in recent years, Muay Thai Fights, usually require gloves within a specific weight range, often 4 oz to 6 oz.
    It's essential to adhere to the regulations set by the relevant athletic commission or governing body.


MMA Glove Weights for Different Situations

  1. Lighter Gloves (8 oz to 12 oz): These gloves are ideal for speed and precision training, such as working with pads and speed bags. They allow fighters to execute quick strikes and develop hand speed.

  2. Medium Gloves (14 oz to 16 oz): Medium-weight gloves strike a balance between speed and power. They are commonly used for sparring, providing more protection for both you and your training partner.

  3. Competition Gloves (4 oz to 6 oz): These gloves are specifically designed for official MMA fights. They are lightweight, allowing fighters to maximize speed and agility while adhering to the required regulations.


Differences Between MMA Competition and Sparring Gloves

MMA Competition Gloves:

  • Weight: Typically range from 4 oz to 6 oz.
  • Padding: Minimal padding to reduce the risk of eye pokes and provide protection while maintaining striking power.
  • Design: Open-finger design for grappling and clinching.
  • Purpose: Designed for official fights to ensure fighter safety while allowing for effective strikes and grappling.

 

MMA Sparring Gloves:

  • Weight: Generally range from 14 oz to 16 oz.
  • Padding: Increased padding to minimize the risk of injury to both the wearer and training partners during sparring sessions.
  • Design: Some sparring gloves have a full-finger design to offer extra protection for training partners.
  • Purpose: Used for controlled sparring sessions to hone techniques, timing, and defensive skills without the full impact of competition gloves.

 

using sparring gloves on bag

 

The Importance of Hand Wraps Under MMA Gloves

 

Wearing hand wraps under MMA gloves is crucial for several reasons:

 

  1. Hand and Wrist Support: Hand wraps provide essential support to the bones and joints in your hands and wrists, reducing the risk of injury during intense training and combat.

  2. Knuckle Protection: Wraps add an extra layer of padding to your knuckles, offering protection when striking heavy bags or opponents.

  3. Stabilization: Properly wrapped hands and wrists have increased stability, allowing you to punch with more power while minimizing the risk of wrist strain.

 

Caring for Your MMA Gloves

To ensure the longevity of your MMA gloves and maintain their performance, follow these care tips:

  1. Air Out After Use: After each training session, allow your gloves to air out by opening the wrist straps and keeping them in a well-ventilated area. This prevents moisture buildup and unpleasant odors.

  2. Use Hand Wraps: Always wear hand wraps to absorb sweat and prevent it from soaking into the glove's interior. This helps keep the gloves clean and fresh.

  3. Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the exterior of your gloves with a damp cloth to remove sweat, dirt, and debris. Be careful not to soak the gloves or use harsh chemicals that could damage the material.

  4. Glove Deodorizers: Invest in glove deodorizers or antimicrobial sprays to control odors and bacteria growth inside the gloves.

  5. Rotate Gloves: If possible, own multiple pairs of gloves and rotate them during training sessions. This gives each pair time to dry out between uses, extending their lifespan.

  6. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Store your gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and extreme cold. High temperatures can cause materials to degrade and affect the overall quality of the gloves.

 

By understanding the nuances of MMA glove sizes, weights, and their intended uses, you can make an informed decision when purchasing gear for training and competition. Remember that comfort, safety, and proper maintenance are paramount to getting the most out of your MMA gloves while ensuring your long-term well-being in the sport.

Best Practice